Did you know a belan or rolling pin could last a lifetime? If not, then this article is perfect for you to read. Plus, the steps are easy to follow! 

Belan or rolling pin is the key tool in making a variety of items. Most of us know the belan as a tool for preparing chapatis and parathas, which form a staple part of the diet of India.  

Belans come in different sizes and shapes, each suitable for their own use. Belan is not only used in India but all over the world for various purposes. Rolling pins are used for flattening the dough while making pies, croissants, cookies, etc.  

A belan can be made from different materials such as wood, glass, and marble. The material used in a belan can vary in its weight and therefore, can be used for different purposes. A wooden belan is lightweight and used for making chapatis. Glass belans are hollow from the center and can be filled with hot or cold water depending upon the use. For a smooth texture, a copper or marble belan is suitable as it is heavy; hence, it can be used to flatten tight dough. Most of the belans come with a handle which helps in getting a grip of the belan.  

Belan is a one-time investment and can last you for decades, but only if it is taken care of, in a proper manner. In this article, you will get to know the top tips to clean and store your belan and preserve its life. At Ellementry, you can buy a variety of food-safe belans made from sustainable materials that will adorn your kitchen and give it a vintage look.

How to clean a wooden belan?

Wooden belans are the most widely used and can last decades without a fuss. However, every rolling pin requires the care for it to last longer. The secret is not to let the belan be submerged in water for long or left in the water to soak. Follow the following steps to clean and store a wooden belan-

1. After use, with the help of a knife, scrape off any leftovers on the belan.
2. The belan should be washed with slightly warm water and dried immediately with a clean towel. 
3. The belan should be put on a stand in a downward motion. 

Can soap be used to clean a belan?

People often avoid using detergents or soaps to clean their belans however, it is safe to use detergent or dishwashers to clean a belan. 

It is common for dust to settle on any utensil. Simply use a mild detergent to clean the dirt, wash off using warm water and immediately with a clean towel.  

Should we condition the Belan?

Even though it is sufficient to wash and dry the belan, a little extra care doesn’t hurt! When belan are exposed to longer periods of heat, they have a chance to crack. A few drops of mineral oil is all you need to rub on the belan and keep any probable cracks away. Using olive oil or any food oil should be avoided as it can add unwanted flavoring while you roll the dough. 

1. Make sure the belan is dry, and there’s no dust on it.
2. Use a little amount of mineral oil and rub it on the belan.
3. Wipe off any excess oil on the belan.
4. The handles do not necessarily need conditioning as the dryer the handles, the better the grip.

Mineral oil conditioning is food safe and can help your wooden belan stay healthy. 

How to clean a marble belan? 

1. A marble belan should be hand-washed with warm water and then dried immediately.
2. It should be placed in a safe stand as it might crack and hurt you if it falls from a height.

Marble belans are a fusion of classic and modern kitchenware. The white marble belan looks beautiful and can leave a lasting impression on your guests. Get yourself a marble belan today from ellementry.

How to clean a glass belan or rolling pin:

Glass belans are easy to clean but difficult to store. Glass belans can be washed like any other glass utensils. 

1. Use a brush to clean the hollow part of the belan.
2. Use soap or dishwasher to clean.
3. Rinse the belan thoroughly.

Glass belans should be handled with care as they are prone to breaking if not kept carefully. 

Why is it important to use a clean Belan to prepare food?

1. Leftover dough on the belan can be harmful to your digestive system.
2. If the belan is not cleaned properly, old bits can cause stomach infections.

Having a belan at your house can be a relief for many and a revival for many. Belans are hand-made by our crafters. We all have seen our grandmothers and mothers use the belan in our childhood to prepare wholesome meals for us. The belan plays an important role in the cooking of Indian cuisine. It is not only used to make chapatis or cookies but also to flatten papad (deep-fried crisps).  

At Ellementry, our constant endeavour is to deliver food-safe kitchenware which is made from sustainable, cost-effective materials. We offer a variety of products in different shapes and sizes, each to suit your demand and taste for an eco-friendly yet, modern way of life. Ellementry provides you with a new way of living a cultural life, the safe way presenting to you an ode to the past!